For selection and programming consideration, the festival accepts DVD, ½" VHS (NTSC), PAL (B/G, I, D/K), SECAM (B/G, I, D/K), PAL-M, PAL-N, NTSC4.43 and MESECAM transfers. If a submitted film originated as a 16mm or 35mm print and is selected, we will then require that optimal format for presentation. Please note that if your film originated or was post-produced on digital video, send only a VHS copy for selection purposes. Again, if selected, we will then require the optimal digital video format for presentation.

For submission purposes, festival programmers will consider films submitted before completion (i.e., rough cuts, Avid outputs, temporary sound mixes, etc.), provided that the film is completed by June 30th. Programmers will not consider trailers or other promotional videos for selection purposes.

More than one film or video may be submitted. Each film or video must be accompanied by a separate submission form and entry fee.

Competition Categories

Submitted films and videos will be selected in two categories:

Features: Any film or video totaling at least 40 minutes in length.

Shorts: Any film or video totaling fewer than 40 minutes in length.

Selected FilmsParticipants must ensure that they have the right to participate in the Festival with regard to third persons connected to the production of selected films or videos. The Festival rarely pays (and never charges) screening fees and it is assumed that any film submitted without specific reference to a requested screening fee in the cover letter is both available to be screened, with no legal restrictions, and without expectation of a fee being paid.

The Festival reserves the right to refuse or cancel the projection of any print deemed of insufficient quality.

Press & Publicity

If your film or video is selected to screen at the Festival, you will be asked to provide: director's bio and filmography/videography, b&w and/or color stills from the film, press materials, and video trailer (if available).

Judging & Awards

Individuals from the media will serve as impartial judges of selected films. Separate Jury and Audience Awards will be presented to the best film or video in each category.

Shipping

The cost of shipping a submission to the Festival must be paid by the entrant. Please do not send submissions in fiber-filled envelopes, as their residue ruins tapes and equipment. To obtain notification of receipt, please include a self-addressed, stamped postcard. Submission tapes will not be returned unless otherwise requested. The Festival will pay for one-way shipping (i.e., return) of prints of selected films and videos. All other shipping charges are the responsibility of the entrant.

Reproduction Agreement

Unless otherwise requested, film and video submissions selected for screening grant the Sacramento Film and Music Festival the rights to use moving image excerpts, production stills, and information from the film or video for promotional purposes.

Liability

Every precaution will be exercised in handling tapes and films. However, should a print be lost or damaged, the Festival will accept responsibility for the period of time that the print is in the possession of the Sacramento Film and Music Festival, and will reimburse the value of the video or film (or part thereof) only. Do not send original prints or tapes.

Acceptance of Rules

Participation in the Festival implies acceptance of all Festival rules and regulations.